04/24/13

Jake Shimabukuro Launches Non-Profit For Music Education

Ukulele virtuoso will provide instruments, materials and tools

Ukulele virtuoso Jake Shimabukuro plans to launch the Four Strings Foundation, a non-profit organization that, according to a press release, “will curate music education workshops nationwide, and provide ukuleles, materials and training tools to schools and educators.”

The release continues, “The Four Strings Foundation was created as a vehicle to give people opportunities to make a difference … My primary focus is to inspire kids through music to help them discover their passion in life. The message is simple—strive to be the best, live drug-free and have fun.”

Jeff Tamarkin

Jake Shimabukuro, Highline Ballroom, NYC, 11-15-11

Shimabukuro will host many of the group’s workshops, either in person or through pre-recorded instructional materials.

The Four Strings Foundation’s stated mission includes:

• Provide music teachers with online and print resources to aid in classroom exercises.

• Raise awareness of the value of music in society by hosting concerts and publishing relevant online media.

• Lobby to increase music education incentives and mandates from local, state and national officials, as well as encourage traditionally minded school administrators to make their music programs more culturally relevant.

• Conduct research to develop the best music education teaching practices and examine the social and emotional learning processes of children.

• Help provide funding for music education programs in schools nationwide.